Consider This from NPR

Colin Powell's Complicated Legacy

Oct 19, 2021

Colin Powell, the first African American Secretary of State and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, reflects on his groundbreaking yet controversial career. He opens up about his private opposition to the Iraq War yet public defense of it at the UN, capturing the paradox of his legacy. Powell shares insights into his personal health struggles and discusses how race shaped his political influence. His efforts to create opportunities for Black servicemen underscore his lasting impact on military leadership and diversity.

11:48

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Colin Powell

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Intro

2min

Reflecting on Colin Powell's Complex Legacy

2min

The Complexity of a Leader's Legacy

2min

From Soldier to Statesman: Colin Powell's Journey

6min

Exploring Colin Powell's Barrier-Breaking Legacy

2min

Colin Powell's life was marked by public service, first as a soldier in Vietnam and then eventually as President George W. Bush's secretary of state. By that time he had already held many prominent positions in government, including national security adviser and chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He was the first African American to hold each of these roles.

But Powell's story will always be entwined with the Iraq War. Although he argued against the invasion in private White House meetings, he did see it through. And he famously defended the strategy on a national stage before the United Nations.

NPR National Correspondent Don Gonyea reports on Powell's enormous and complicated legacy.

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